Credible and Actionable Evidence Across Stakeholder Levels of the Cooperative Extension System

Abstract

This article provides a look at the various levels within the Cooperative Extension System and the use of evidence within these levels. The authors examine the factors associated with credible evidence and the various levels. The impact of factors such as politics, science, stakeholder support, and expectations are discussed. The various levels within Extension are summarized in relation to evidence that is routinely requested or required for each. Lastly, the authors use information directly from Extension directors to provide a framework for the discussion.

Keywords

• evaluation
• stakeholders
• politics
• science